one-dimensional

adjective

one-di·​men·​sion·​al

ˈwən-də-ˈmen(t)-sh(ə-)nəl

 

 also  -dī-

1

: having one dimension

A straight line is one-dimensional.

The one-dimensional sequence of amino acids is the primary structure.

—Douglas R. Hofstadter

2

: lacking depth or complexity : superficial

To the audience, the term "sitcom" connoted a lot of one-dimensional stories and characters.

—Bob Fisher

one-dimensionality

ˈwən-də-ˌmen(t)-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

 also  -dī-

noun

one-di​mension​ally adverb

a one-dimensionally portrayed character

The pixels were arranged one-dimensionally. [=in a straight line]

Synonyms

• superficial
• shallow

Examples of one-dimensional in a Sentence

a one-dimensional analysis of a novel that has a lot to say about personal courage

Recent Examples on the Web

Much more than just a one-dimensional floor spacer, Johnson will be another essential hub in a system built on trust (especially that of Jokic, who has the highest respect for the smartest players), movement, and unselfishness. —Joel Rush, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025

Stories focused on violence reduce individuals to one-dimensional portrayals. —Lashawn Harris august 27, Literary Hub, 27 Aug. 2025

With little new talent entering the field, the industry has remained stuck in the past, built on legacy systems, cookie-cutter portfolios, and one-dimensional advice. —Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2025

Getting ready for a night out, should be that much more fun, considering that sexy is not one-dimensional. —Karissa Mitchell, Essence, 18 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for one-dimensional

• multidimensional
• unidimensional
• attentional
• conventional
• dimensional
• extensional
• intensional
• intentional
• interventional
• nonconventional
• nondimensional
• unconventional

Kids Definition

one-dimensional

adjective

1

: having one dimension

2

: stereotyped